The United States Women's National Team began its quest for a third consecutive World Cup title with a 3-0 win over Vietnam Women at Eden Park in Auckland on July 22nd. The match result, while comfortable, revealed some uncharacteristic wastefulness from the defending champions. Sophia Smith was the star, scoring two first-half goals in the 14th and 45+7 minutes, the latter from the penalty spot after a VAR review for a foul on Trinity Rodman. Captain Lindsey Horan added a third with a powerful header in the 77th minute. The USWNT missed a penalty in the second half, with veteran Megan Rapinoe seeing her spot-kick saved after coming on as a substitute. The win gave the USA an expected three points in Group E, but the missed chances will be a talking point. US coach Vlatko Andonovski focused on the positives of creating opportunities, while Vietnam's Mai Đức Chung praised his team's defensive effort.